Quantum Mechanics A Conceptual Approach [Paperback]

A unique introductory text on quantum mechanics, from basic principles to historical perspective.
* Includes description of the historical developments that led to the discovery of QM, often left out of other textbooks.
* Emphasizes basic concepts that were essential in this discovery, placing them in context and making them more understandable to students.
* Written in an easy-to-understand style and assuming no prior knowledge of the topic, this book provides a solid foundation for future study of quantum chemistry.
* Includes problem sets for student use.Preface.

1. The Discovery of Quantum Mechanics.

I Introduction.

II Planck and Quantization.

III Bohr and the Hydrogen Atom.

IV Matrix Mechanics.

V The Uncertainty Relations.

VI Wave Mechanics.

VII The Final Touches of Quantum Mechanics.

VIII Concluding Remarks.

2. The Mathematics of Quantum Mechanics.

I Introduction.

II Differential Equations.

III Kummer’s Function.

IV Matrices.

V Permutations.

VI Determinants.

VII Properties of Determinants.

VIII Linear Equations and Eigenvalues.

IX Problems.

3. Classical Mechanics.

I Introduction.

II Vectors and Vector Fields.

III Hamiltonian Mechanics.

IV The Classical Harmonic Oscillator.

V Angular Momentum.

VI Polar Coordinates.

VII Problems.

4. Wave Mechanics of a Free Particle.

I Introduction.